Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

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Formerly the Maison Blanche department store, the Ritz-Carlton was inspired by the magnificent antebellum mansions of Old New Orleans. Its lobby—adorned with elaborate friezes, marble statues, and gilt-framed art—opens up to a leafy outdoor courtyard with a gazebo and fountain. Its 527 rooms are as graceful and posh as the hotel at large, with jewel-toned linens, gilt-framed mirrors, velvet settees, and marble bathrooms. Downstairs, the Davenport Lounge offers live entertainment by jazz musician Jeremy Davenport four nights a week.